DEAFENING MALLS
During my last few visits to Central Department Store, there were the usual car exhibitions, teen and younger fashion shows, and cosmetics, air purifiers and gadget stores all trying to out do each other with ear-splitting noise that took the decibels to new limits.
It was deafening walking past some displays and not at all a pleasant experience. I cannot understand why volume is considered a selling point in Phuket. While some of us actively seek out rock concerts, bar beers and discos; I like to choose where I go to get my dose of deafness.
It just appears that in Phuket, getting away from the noise is not as easy as going to the beach. Occasional humming or ringing in the ears following exposure to loud noises is not uncommon – I had it when I left Central. The correct term for this ringing is tinnitus, which is not a disease but a symptom.
Continual ringing in the ears afflicts a lot of people and can indicate that the nerves have been damaged, due to extended exposure of loud noises or other factors. Sometimes the ringing does not stop, and is constantly in your ear.
Some people find this extremely intrusive and it can seriously affect their quality of life. The ringing can also be in both ears, and can be low, medium or high pitched. While this is generally caused by extended exposure to excessive noise, trauma to the head or neck and allergies are also common reasons for the problem.
High blood pressure and even aspirin and other medications can cause it as well. If you have tinnitus and you do not know why, you should consult an ear nose and throat specialist (ENT). Simply reducing you blood pressure may relieve the constant humming and reduce your anxiety levels. A buildup of ear wax can also be the cause and this is easily removed by a professional.
However there is not a lot that can be done to treat tinnitus with associated nerve damage, particularly if the damage has been caused by overexposure to loud noises.
As with most things, it’s best to avoid having the damage done in the first place. While I am not going to stop shopping at Central, I will plug my ears with tissue paper or avoid the areas where the volume is unbearable.
I am also cautious when in range of industrial noise, such as earth-moving equipment or getting on and off aircraft on the airport tarmac. My hearing is precious to me. I just wish someone could explain to me why noise is considered a selling point, and why Central is so unbearable at times.
Tags: Tinnitus News
